Sensei Saulo Ribeiro was born and raised in the heart of the Amazon, Manaus, Brazil. He graduated from Law School, but instead of pursuing a career in law, Saulo decided to follow his passion — Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His dream was to be a positive influence for others and help people through Jiu-Jitsu everywhere he could. In 1995, Saulo earned his Black Belt from his mentor, Royler Gracie. ​

He subsequently went on to become one of the greatest champions in the history of the sport by winning multiple world titles and earning his place in the IBJJF Hall of Fame. Currently, he spends much of his time with his family in San Diego, California where he actively teaches and oversees the University of Jiu-Jitsu’s academic program as well as all matters related to his worldwide network of Jiu-Jitsu academies known as the Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu Association. From time to time he travels to different Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu affiliated schools around the world where he teaches seminars and instructors’ courses.

Sensei Xande Ribeiro was born and raised in the heart of the Amazon, Manaus, Brazil. Considered by many as the greatest Jiu-Jitsu competitor in the history of the sport, Xande excelled in competition at an early age. He received his Black Belt from the hands of his older brother, Saulo Ribeiro in 2001. A year later, both Xande and Saulo moved to Toledo, Ohio where they started the Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu Association. In 2007, Xande moved to San Diego, California where he founded the University of Jiu-Jitsu​ ​along with his brother. Within his extensive list of personal achievements, Xande is most proud of being a loving father. Currently, he spends much of his time with his family and his biggest admirer, his daughter, in San Diego where he also leads the University of Jiu-Jitsu’s academic program as head instructor.

Sensei Xande is available for seminars and workshops worldwide.

Request Instructor for:

Jeremy Bursky| Black Belt

Originally from Nyack, New York, Professor Jeremy Bursky moved to San Diego, California as a Blue Belt in 2008. Shortly after, he began his tutelage under the Ribeiro bothers at the University of Jiu-Jitsu. As a very dedicated student of the art, Jeremy rose quickly through the ranks receiving his Black Belt from both Saulo and Xande Ribeiro in 2013. Jeremy firmly believes that Jiu-Jitsu can be used as a vehicle for personal growth, and it can help people come closer to achieving their true potential. He is known for his composure, technical prowess and positive outlook on life. Jeremy currently resides in San Diego with his lovely wife, Luciana who is also a passionate practitioner of the art. ​

Request Instructor for:

​﻿Gustavo Dias| Black Belt - 2nd°

Professor Gustavo Dias started practicing Jiu-Jitsu at the early age of 14, in the city of Paranagua, Brazil. In 2008, after six years of arduous training and having won many of the biggest championships in the World, Professor Gustavo received his Black Belt under his first instructor, Professor Ocimar Costa from Manaus, Brazil. In 2011, as an already accomplished athlete, Professor Gustavo moved to the United States of America to teach the art and further his career as a high-level Jiu-Jitsu competitor. A few years later he met Saulo and Xande Ribeiro through a mutual friend of theirs. It was not long before he became a great friend as well as an excellent training partner to the Ribeiro brothers. He was chosen to be part of The U's teaching staff for his many great qualities as an instructor. Professor Gustavo affirms that through Jiu-Jitsu, he has learned to never lose faith and the importance of perseverance. Gustavo now spends much of his time in San Diego teaching, surfing and living the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle. ​​

Request Instructor for:

Julio Villanueva| Black Belt

Professor Julio Villanueva was born and raised in San Diego, California. He has been teaching Jiu-Jitsu to both children and adults in San Diego for many years. His passion for Jiu-Jitsu began when he was introduced to it by a family member. Coming from a wrestling background, Professor Julio had some knowledge in the art of grappling, but he had never been exposed to the many techniques one can use to subdue an aggressor like those found in Jiu-Jitsu. Once exposed, he instantaneously fell in love with the art. After years of training, Julio was awarded his Black Belt by Saul and Xande Ribeiro. Julio is a skilled competitor and a passionate teacher, has dedicated countless hours to developing his craft, and his eagerness to pass on the knowledge he has accrued over the years makes him an outstanding instructor. Julio currently resides in San Diego and is the loving father of two healthy boys. In addition, he runs his own Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu affiliated academy in La Mesa, California.